Regarded for its 'vast knowledge of the market', the public, urban, and environmental law practice at Morais Leitão, Galvão Teles, Soares da Silva & Associados, under the joint leadership of planning law specialist João Pereira Reis and public law partner João Tiago Silveira, handles a wide range of both contentious and non-contentious issues for an impressive roster of developers, public entities and individuals. The department is especially well versed in tourism and industrial hub projects, showcasing strength in licensing matters and in complex negotiations with municipalities. Co-head Pereira Reis is adept in supporting major commercial clients in the attainment of construction permits. Promoted to the partnership in November 2023, Rui Ribeiro Lima plays a 'decisive role' in planning and licensing mandates, with a focus on securing construction and activity-specific permits.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'ML's planning team is crucial for advising international investors. They are incredibly knowledgeable of Portuguese planning law, which is essential for mitigating risks in deals.'

  • ‘Rui Ribeiro Lima is an excellent communicator and very well respected in the industry.’

  • 'Morais Leitão stands out for its team's client engagement, vast knowledge of the market, and local contacts with municipal bodies.'

  • ‘Rui Ribeiro Lima is an exceptional professional and an excellent person with integrity.’

  • 'The urban planning team stands out for its availability, quality service, timely compliance, and a pragmatic approach. It offers in-depth market knowledge and integrated solutions across various areas.'

  • 'The team, led by João Pereira Reis and Rui Ribeiro Lima, is a market reference in urban planning. They demonstrate extensive technical and legal expertise.'

  • 'They provide invaluable, professional, timely, and transparent support.'

  • ‘In urban planning law, Rui Ribeiro Lima's decisive role in our processes has been highly effective, earning him strong recommendations and positive feedback from our real estate investor clients.'

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Morais Leitão, Galvão Teles, Soares da Silva & Associados
João Pereira Reis has accumulated vast experience in his practice of law since 1978. He occupied several posts in the Public Administration: Secretary of State for Local Administration and Land Use Planning, coordinator of the legal office of the National Commission for the Environment, legal advisor to several members of Government, Councilman in a Municipality. Lecturer at Nova of Lisbon University and at Lisbon Law School. Consultant to the Association of Portuguese Real Estate Developers.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

João Tiago Silveira, João Pereira Reis

Other key lawyers

Rui Ribeiro Lima